Weblogs

Functions

According to Richardson, 2006, Weblogs serve six primary functions:

1. Weblogs are truly constructivist learning tools (e.g., Encyclopedia of Life Blog @ http://blog.eol.org/
2. Weblogs extend the classroom from a single location or geographical setting to (e.g., 24 Hours for Darfur @ http://24hoursfordarfur.org/blog/index.php/site/2007/09/)
3. Weblogs archive learning that occurs in the classroom and beyond (e.g., Arbor Heights Elementary @ http://www.halcyon.com/arborhts/).
4. Weblogs are democratic tools that support different learning styles.
5. Weblogs enhance the development of expertise in a particular subject.

Pedagogy & 21st Century Fluencies

Weblogs can engage students in 21st Century Fluencies (e.g., research, organization and synthesis of new ideas).

Weblogs can be used in the classroom as

1. Class Portals
2. Online Filing Cabinets
3. E-Portfolios
4. Collaborative Spaces
5. Knowledge Management and Articulations
6. School/Class Websites

Of the examples presented here, and in consideration of the 21st Century fluencies presented below, what ideas do you have regarding the creation of a “learning space” for your classroom and how might blogs be used in this endeavor? Use this brainstorm to guide you through your exploration of blogs today.
How can blogs be used to create learning spaces that engage students in the following 21st Century Fluencies:

1. Demonstrate initiative by critically assessing problems & implementing creative solutions.
2. Behave cooperatively as a member of a team.
3. Read for information & application.
4. Calculate & measure for information & application.
5. Behave in a responsible manner without supervision.
6. Communicate verbally & in writing to evoke clear understanding.
7. Seek excellence in individual & group activities.
8. Locate and manage resources for problem solving.
“To write in a wiki is to compose within a living organism” (Allison, 2005).